Description
This One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta uncooked
- 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen chopped small
- ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk for a lighter version
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Zest of ½ lemon for brightness
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the uncooked orzo pasta and stir until well mixed with the onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Mix in the chopped broccoli florets, cover, and let it cook for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in the heavy cream or milk, shredded cheddar cheese, grated parmesan, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
- If desired, season with red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and lemon zest for added flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For a lighter version, use whole milk instead of heavy cream. You can also add other vegetables or proteins as desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Side Dish
- Method: One-Pot / Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1½ cups
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Keywords: One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo, Broccoli Orzo, Cheesy Orzo Recipe, Easy One Pot Meals